Texas Department of Transportation contractors will work some nights for the next four weeks on the intersection improvements at Interstate 35 and Aquarena Springs.

Working at night will allow less disruption to traffic and area businesses even though it may not be welcomed to people who live nearby. TxDOT is exempt from city of San Marcos’ construction noise ordinances which typically puts a halt to construction between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m.

“We understand night work is disruptive to residents in the area. We will work with TxDOT and their contractor to minimize when this occurs,” said Laurie Moyer, the city’s engineering director.

The intersection improvement project is intended to enhance safety and relieve congestion by improving left-turn movements, adding medians, and building sidewalks.

When the new Aquarena interchange is complete, TxDOT plans similar construction at Interstate 35 and Texas 80 (Hopkins Street). The estimated construction cost for the intersection improvements is $4.7 million. Dan Williams Co. of Austin is the contractor for both projects.

The interchanges are being paid for through Prop. 12 funds approved by the Texas Transportation Commission to address congested highways. Both Aquarena Springs and Hopkins/Texas 80 are state roadways.